Saratoga Springs

Saratoga is most known for its great horse racing track (oldest on the country) and harness racing track. Victorian visitors came to take the waters at springs. The spring waters are located at different pavilions around the city and surrounds. They vary tremendously in flavor from a light mineral water to frosty and hard. The city of Saratoga Springs is a major tourist destination during its summer horse racing season. Yaddo, the famous writers retreat is located near the "flat track" on Union avenue. If you call ahead, you may be able to tour.

By plane

Albany International Airport (ALB) in Albany.

By car

Saratoga Springs is just off Interstate 87 about 45min north of Albany and 4 hours from New York City and 3.5h south of the Canadian border. Enjoy this tree lined drive along I-87, also called the Adirondack Northway.

By train

Amtrak serves the city two daily trains in each direction, both trains have their southern terminus in New York City. The Adirondack runs between NYC and Montreal while Ethan Allen Express originates in Rutland, Vermont. is located at 26 Station Lane, about a mile west downtown. Local buses are timed to arrive and depart in conjunction with trains.
For a more leisurely experience, Saratoga and North Creek Railroad runs heritage trains between Saratoga Springs to the Adironack village of North Creek, with flag stops at seven other intermediate stations. Service is offered daily from Thursday through Monday during summer in historic dome cars. The morning train is timed to coordinate with Amtrak service. A great way to see the Adirondacks without driving.

By bus

• Capital District Transportation Authority (CDTA) operates local buses in the Albany area. Several routes operate to and within Saratoga Springs, including a Saratoga Visitors Trolley.
• Greyhound, in conjunction with other bus carriers, offers service to Saratoga from both the north and south. Buses that originate in New York City, Albany, and Montreal stop here several times a day.
• Megabus has a service from New York City and Burlington. The bus stop is located at the Saratoga Raceway Casino, near the Nelson Avenue entrance and CDTA bus stop. Fares from $1 and up.

The downtown walking area is centered on Broadway, but you will need to use public transport or a car to reach the world famous Saratoga Race Track, Saratoga Casino, Natural Museum of Dance, Roosevelt Spa, Saratoga SPA State Parkor SPAC. However, there is a lot to see and do in the downtown area of Saratoga Springs.

Visitor center

• Saratoga Springs Urban Cultural Park Visitor Center, 297 Broadway, Phone: +1 518 587-3241. Daily 9AM-4PM (Closed Su Dec-Mar).

• Saratoga Spa State Park

  phone: +1 518 584-2535
  address: 19 Roosevelt Dr
  Dubbed "The Public's Resort", this park has mineral baths, eighteen-hole and nine-hole golf courses, free hardtop and clay tennis courts, and several pool areas with showers, locker rooms, rest rooms and food concessions. Hiking (and cross country/snowshoe) trails and picnic areas complete with grills are available as well. The park encompasses and protects the mineral springs in use at least as far back as the 14th century. This "Queen of Spas" was a 19th century vacation retreat for the rich and famous.

• National Museum of Dance

  phone: +1 518 584-2225
  address: 99 South Broadway

• Roosevelt Baths and Spa

  phone: +1 518 226-4790
  address: 37-39 Roosevelt Dr
  Despite the plethora of day spas around the city, this is the only place where you can relax in a natural mineral bath using water drawn straight from the ground. (It's mixed with hot tap water to bring it up to a comfortable temperature, though.) This facility was built in 1935 as part of the development of the park. While the mineral baths are their signature service, they also offer the standard menu of modern spa services: massages, facials, etc. The decor, with its aged porcelain fixtures and linoleum floors, may look a little institutional, but keep in mind any oxidation you see is natural, a result of iron in the spring water. And it's certainly the most authentic Saratoga spa experience you can get.

• Saratoga Automobile Museum

  phone: +1 518 587-1935
  address: 110 Avenue of the Pines

The Children's Museum at Saratoga

address: 69 Caroline Street

Frances Young Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery

phone: +1 518 580-8080

address: 815 North Broadway

National Museum of Racing & Hall of Fame

phone: +1 518 584-0400

address: Union and Ludlow Sts

A place to experience the history of one of Saratoga's most popular attractions, thoroughbred racing. Something for everyone with interactive exhibits, rare memorabilia, and equine art.

New York State Military Museum

address: 61 Lake Avenue

Saratoga Springs History MuseumCanfield Casino Bldg, Congress Park. Summer 10AM-4PM. Other seasons W-Sa 10AM-4PM, Su 1PM-4PM. Housed in an 1870 casino. Adults $5, ages 12-17 $3.

Yaddo Gardens

address: Route 9P

Artist community on four hundred acre site.

Saratoga National Historical Park

phone: +1 518 670-2985

address: 648 Route 32, Stillwater, NY

• Adirondack Balloon Flights

  phone: +1 518 793-6342
  Located 4 exits north of Saratoga, exit 19 on I-87. This once and a lifetime experience is not to be missed. Enjoy the gorgeous views of the Adirondack Region and the Green Mountains of Vermont from high in the sky with some of the most experienced ballooning crews.

• Caffè Lena

  phone: +1 518 583-0022
  address: 47 Phila Street
  Acoustic music in a 110 seat coffeehouse that opened in 1960. The venue enjoys a world-wide reputation for preserving and furthering American musical traditions. Its archives are held at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress. The schedule features a mix of established career musicians and nationally touring emerging artists. Emerging artists presented by Caffe Lena have included Bob Dylan, EmmyLou Harris, Don McLean, Arlo Guthrie, Ani DiFranco, G. Love and Sawyer Fredericks. A complete performer list dating back to May 21, 1960 can be viewed on the venue's website. Hospitality for concert-goers includes desserts, light fare, local craft beer, wine, coffees and teas. The venue is operated as a non-profit organization.
• Saratoga Lake Located 4 miles southeast of Saratoga Springs. This 8 1/2 mile long lake has a public boat launch at the north end, as well as several private marinas. Popular activities include bass fishing, sailing, boating, water skiing, and ice fishing.

• Saratoga Performing Arts Center

  phone: +1 518 584-9330
  address: 108 Avenue of the Pines
  Summer home of the New York City Ballet, the Philadelphia Orchestra and various concerts such as The Dave Matthews Band.

Horse Racing

The time to come to Saratoga is during the Thoroughbred season, which is five or so weeks in July, August and September. The premier race here is the Travers, but every day in the season thousands flock from around New York and points behind to the see the ponies. That said, if you find yourself in town during other times of the year, check out some of the smaller tracks. Indoor gambling places are available for those who have a gambling urge during the winter months.

• Oklahoma Training Track

• Saratoga Casino Hotel

  phone: +1 518-682-8888 (hotel reservations)
  address: 342 Jefferson St
  Harness racing and video gaming.

• Saratoga Race Course

  phone: +1 518 584-6200
  address: 267 Union Avenue
  Thoroughbred horse racing from late July to early September.

Golf

• Saratoga Lake Golf Club

  address: 35 Grace Moore Road
  Eighteen holes with lots of up/down.

• Saratoga National Golf Club

  phone: +1 518 583-4653 ext 615
  address: 458 Union Avenue
  Named 2005 "Golf Course of the Year" by National Golf Course Owners Association. Named "One of America's 100 Greatest Public Courses 2005-2006" by Golf Digest.

• Saratoga Spa Golf Course

  address: 60 Roosevelt Drive
  Towering pines surround this 7,100 yard course.

Walking

Aside from walking on park trails, one really fun thing to do in good weather is to simply walk up and down Broadway in Downtown. There are lots of beautiful 19th- and early 20th-century buildings lining the street.

• Adirondack Community College, 6 Mountain Ledge Drive, Gansevoort 12831, +1 518 584-3959, .
• Empire State College, 111 West Avenue, +1 518 587-2100 ext. 2297, .
• Skidmore College, 815 North Broadway, +1 518 580-5000, . Offering bachelors and/or graduate degrees in over 30 areas of study, as well as the "University Without Walls" degree completion program.

Saratoga isn't Manhattan, but it does have plenty of boutiques and shops that cater to that particular crowd. No matter what your style is, Saratoga Springs is full of chic boutiques, trendy antique stores and a wide variety of eclectic shops to satisfy any style. Start on Broadway and find local crafts, haute fashion and other merchandise for that platinum card.

• Celtic Treasures 456 Broadway +1 518 583-9452. Open Daily. This Irish gift shop has only the best from Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. Pottery, china, jewelry, music, books, posters and prints, sweaters and caps are all available at this charming establishment.

• Crafters Gallery

  address: 427 Broadway
  Open Daily, shipping available. A large selection of Saratoga related paintings and prints, as well as thoroughbred photos. This local favorite is a great place for gifts.

• deJonghe Original Jewelry

  address: 470 Broadway
  This Gallery/Workshop is where designer and goldsmith Dennis deJonghe creates his one of a kind jewelry out of fine gems and precious metals. It features his equestrian collection, as well as sample wedding bands and other original designs.
• Lifestyles 436 Broadway, +1 518 584-4665. Open Daily. V/MC/AE accepted. This specialty boutique located downtown is known for elegant fine fashions and accessories. Designers include Eileen Fisher, Singrid Olsenand, and Michael Stars.

• Northshire Bookstore

  phone: +1 518-682-4200
  address: 424 Broadway
  A family-owned, independent bookstore committed to the future of the book

• Rockabella's Boutique

  address: 441B Broadway
  Find the hottest fashions for women and teens. Find trend driven clothing perfect for your style. Designs by Ed Hardy, Sky, Sweetees, Blue Cult, David Kahn, Unyx, Steve Madden and more.
• Saratoga Farmers Market High Rock Park. +1 518 893-2669 Open Wed 3-6PM, Sat 9AM-1PM. This open air market is home to a variety of homemade goods, crafts, and foods. The market is a must and has been serving the locals for over 25 years.

• Sweetheart’s Dolls

  address: 368 Broadway
  V/M accepted. This "shop with a heart" has 24 lines of dolls to choose from. Play dolls as well as porcelain and vinyl collectibles are available in a variety of price ranges.

Saratoga has some of the best dining in upstate New York. Chefs from New York City have emigrated northward to ensure that there's food for every palette. Most of the finest restaurants can be found on or near Broadway. Keep in mind that some places aren't open outside of the tourist season.
There's also plenty of choice for those less discriminating taste buds or smaller budgets. Pub grub, American specials and small diners abound. And if you're hungry at 2AM, be sure to ask a local where you can get a doughboy. They're great.

• Bruno's Restaurant

  address: 237 Union Ave
  Check out the famous wood fired pizza and homemade soups.

• Char Koon

  phone: +1 518 581-9000
  address: 388A Broadway
  If you're in the mood for Chinese, look no further than this delicious spot downtown. Good price, great food, and also serves Thai.

• Chez Sophie Bistro

  address: 534 Broadway
  Upscale French bistro located at The Saratoga.

• Compton's

  phone: +1 518 584-9632
  address: 457 Broadway
  Early morning breakfast.fast! Opens when the bars close.

• D'Andreas Pizza

  address: 33 Caroline Street

• Esperanto

  phone: +1 518 587-4236
  address: 4 Caroline Street
  Pizza and a doughboy and you're ready for anything. Take them out for a stroll. Originally at 6 1/2 Caroline, the restaurant moved its location in August 2009 to provide an expanded dining area.

• Four Seasons Natural Food Store & Cafe

  address: 33 Phila Street
  This vegetarian spot has a variety of soups, salads, and hot en trees. While you are there, check out the retail store which offers a selection of natural foods,teas,supplements, and personal care and organic produce.

• 43 Phila Bistro

  address: 43 Phila Street
  Premiere dining and wine list.

• Gaffney's Restaurant

  address: 16 Caroline Street
  Great courtyard dining during track season, indoor and pub dining available.

• Hattie's Restaurant

  address: 45 Phila Street
  "Hattie" may have long since passed, but her Cajun tastes are still reflected on the menu, which includes her signature fired chicken.

• Lillian's Restaurant

  address: 408 Broadway
  Warm rustic steak and seafood place right on the strip. Private parties and banquets upstairs in Diamond Jim's.

• Longfellows Hotel, Restaurant & Conference Center

  address: 500 Union Avenue
  Good location for weddings, businesses meetings or private gatherings.

• Mare Ristorante

  address: 17 Maple Avenue
  Trendy Italian restaurant, amazing lounge, seafood pasta and vino. Per morire per!

• The Merry Monk Restaurant and Bar

  phone: +1 518-584-6655
  address: 84 Henry Street
  Classic bistro decor makes this a great spot for cocktails or dinner. Ask for a corner banquette table to enjoy a cozy meal for two and listen to the funky world beat soundtrack.

• Mexican Connection

  address: 41 Nelson Avenue
  Viva De Mexico, best mex going! Away from downtown but near the track.

• Mouzon House

  address: 1 York Street
  Located in a renovated Victorian house, this sister restaurant to One Caroline Street Bistro specializes in locally-sourced cuisine with a Cajun flair. Try the Crawfish Beignets!

• The Olde Bryan Inn

  address: 123 Maple Avenue
  18th century inn.

• One Caroline Street Bistro

  address: 1 Caroline St
  Jazz with dinner, reservations or wait required but worth it.

• Pennell's Restaurant

  address: 284 Jefferson Street
  Family-owned Italian Restaurant

• Pizza Works

  address: 88 Henry St.
  Pizzaworks is a family pizzeria. Their hand tossed New York style, thin crust pizza is based of a traditional Italian family recipe. They also serve a variety of subs, wings, calzones, stromboli, wraps, salads and appetizers including bread sticks and garlic knots.

• PJ's BAR-B-QSASouth Broadway (US Route 9). Barbecue chicken and ribs; includes two 20-foot barbecue pits out in the back. Located about one mile from the Northway, open year-round.

• Putnam Market

  address: 435 Broadway
  Specialty food store and deli.

• Ravenous

  address: 21 Phila Street
  A unique menu featuring savory and sweet crepes for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.

• Sushi Thai Garden

  address: 44 Phila Street
  Light eating.

• Saratoga City Tavern

  address: 21 Caroline Street
  Pub Fare.

• Spring Street Deli

  phone: +1 518-584-0994
  address: 132 Spring St
  Neighborhood delicatessen, featuring sandwiches named for famous thoroughbred race horses.

• Uncommon Grounds

  address: 402 Broadway
  Serves coffee, bagels, bagel sandwiches and such. A local favorite.

• Wheatfields Restaurant and Bar

  address: 440 Broadway
  Pasta, Steak and more.

Saratoga has no lack of choices if what you desire is a hop-or-two. Fine Irish Pubs to trendy ultra-light-serving watering holes abound. If wine is what makes you feel fine, you will. Mare, 43 Phila, Doc's and, of course, The Wine Bar will be more than happy to help you. Even if they have to run across town to get exactly what you want, literally!
The wineries from New York's Fingerlakes region have been maturing very well and can be found on most lists. The pages of more established varieties from California, Australia, France and Italy sometimes make your head spin before you sip. If you get the chance attend one of the many wine tastings. They are available both for the novice and the Guru of the Grape.

• Desperate Annie's

  address: 10 Caroline Street
  A Caroline Street institution since who-knows-when.

• The Merry Monk

  address: 84 Henry Street
  Classic bistro decor makes this a great spot for cocktails or dinner.

• The Parting Glass

  address: 40 Lake Ave
  This local favorite had tons to offer, live music and great food add to the appeal of this one of a kind bar.

• Spa City Tap & Barrel

  phone: +1 518 229-1949
  address: 13 Caroline Street

• Tin 'n' Lint

  phone: +1 518 587-5897
  address: 2 Caroline Street
  A 1930s era saloon.

• Trotters

  address: 45 Caroline Street
  A great place to watch football on Sundays, or start out your night. Inexpensive and the best specials in town.

Saratoga Springs has a number of different accommodation options ranging from budget chain motels to quaint (and often historic) bed and breakfasts.

• Batcheller Mansion Inn

  address: 20 Circular St
  A historical bed and breakfast.

• Best Western Plus Saratoga Springs

  phone: +1 518 584-2350
  address: 3291 South Broadway

• Comfort Inn & Suites

  address: 17 Old Gick Road
  Free Wi-Fi, indoor pool, pet-friendly, free hot breakfast.

• Courtyard Saratoga Springs

  address: 11 Excelsior Av

• Gideon Putnam Hotel & Conference Center

  address: 24 Gideon Putnam Rd

• Hampton Inn & Suites

  address: 25 Lake Ave

• Hilton Garden Inn

  address: 125 South Broadway

• Holiday Inn

  address: 232 Broadway

• Inn At Saratoga

  phone: +1 518 583-1890
  address: 231 Broadway

• Residence Inn Saratoga Springs

  address: 295 Excelsior Av

• The Saratoga Hilton

  address: 534 Broadway

• Saratoga Arms

  phone: +1 518-584-1775
  address: 497 Broadway
  31 rooms.

• The Westchester House Bed and Breakfast Inn

  phone: +1 518 587-7613
  address: 102 Lincoln Avenue
  7 rooms.

Saratoga Springs is in the 518 area code. The ZIP code is 12866.

Publications

• Albany Times-Union,
• Glens Falls Post-Star,
• Saratoga Living, , quarterly magazine; also covers nearby Warren and Washington Counties
• The Saratogian, , Saratoga Springs and Saratoga County's daily newspaper

Religious services

• Church of Saint Peter, , +1 518 584-2375
• St. Clement's Church, , +1 518 584-6122

Saratoga Springs is relatively safe for a city its size. However, the bars along Caroline Street can get a bit rowdy late in the week and on weekends.

Hospitals

• Saratoga Hospital

  phone: +1 518 587-3222
  address: 211 Church Street

• Lake George and the Adirondacks